China using 3D bio printer to create artificial dura mater

May 8, 2014

Image: Wikipedia

Dura mater is a thick and dense inelastic membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, serving for the protection of the brain. In neurosurgical procedures polymer or silicon based membranes are often used as artificial dura mater to replace the damaged tissue.

Two doctors in Guangzhou has developed a 3D bio printer that is capable of printing artificial dura mater, Chinese newspaper reports today. The 3D printed artificial dura mater is registered in the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA).

This new 3D bio printer prints dura mater and bones using macromolecular biomaterials, extracellular fluids and cells. Researchers expect to be able to print skin soon.

I suspect silicone-based, not silicon-based membranes are traditionally used.
That one 'e' makes a big difference. Silicon is a hard, crystalline metalloid.
Silicone is a soft inorganic-organic polymer.

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